NEWS

Even though i am a year late on this.......Welcome Alexander Steele to the Nightsky Studios Engineers. We are happy to have him on board.

We have Upgraded again to Pro Tools HDX 11
(06/04/2014)

Yes .. More upgrades. We have moved to Pro Tools HDX 11. We are also running the brand new Mac Pro
as well as a ton of other new plug ins such as Heat, SPL Transient Designer, MCDSP Classic Pack,
The Complete Sound Toys pack and much much more. Come start your new project!!!!

Recording Lab PEP 6840/106856 (set up and record a band start to finish and give them a finished demo of the work) Basic recording class is not required but is recommended before taking this lab.
03/25/13 to 03/28/13

New Gear (08/31/2012)

We just added another new head. The Extremely versatile Engl Invader 150.

New Gear (08/22/2012)

We have added a Bogner Uberschall to our ever expanding amplifier collection.

Recording Lab (set up and record a band start to finish and give them a finished demo of the work) Basic recording class is not required but is recommended before taking this lab.
03/26/12 to 03/29/12

You may have noticed from the photos we have added a ton of new gear as well this past year. Some of the new stuff includes A Neve Portioc 5012 Pre Amp, Neve 5043 Compressor, A Designs Hammer EQ, Chandler Germanium Tone Control, A Second Chandler Germanium Compressor, American Standard Strat, as well as A DW Drum Kit. We will continue to add more throughout the new year as well. Thanx to everyone for a great 2011.

Fall Workshop Schedule for CSM Recording Classes (08/06/2011)

Basic Live Sound Operation (learn how to set up and run a live sound, concert, or church event, as well as other techniques)
09/12/11 to 09/15/11 from 6-9PM

Recording Lab (set up and record a band start to finish and give them a finished demo of the work) Basic recording class is not required but is recommended before taking this lab.
10/03/11 to 10/06/11

New Nightsky Staff (04/21/2011)

Nightsky Studios Welcomes Matt Hinshaw the new official engineer.

Fall Recording and Live Sound Classes Announced for CSM (05/14/2010)

The New Fall Recording and Live Sound Workshop Dates have been announced by CSM. They will be taught at Nightsky Studios. Info on each class is below.

Basic Live Sound OperationsPEP 5000/86278
September 13 to September 16, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Learn the operation of a basic live sound PA system in this course. Topics covered will include mixing console operation, PA design and system setup, equalization, amplifiers, crossovers, loudspeaker design, microphone techniques, and monitoring. This course is ideal for sound crews from nightclub, churches, and reception halls.

Introduction to Basic Studio RecordingPEP 6840/86279
September 20 to September 23, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Come and be introduced to basic recording equipment and procedures in a studio recording setting. This class will prepare you to advance in the field and will include pertinent instruction on the essential elements for a studio, which include consoles or mixers, recorders, and monitors. You will also learn how to identify which microphones to use and how to place them, as well as a basic mix after recording.

Basic Studio Recording LabPEP 6170-86280
October 4 to October 7, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.
This class is the follow-up lab course to PEP 6840, Basic Studio Recording. Complete a recording project from start to finish. Learn how to set up Pro Tools for an actual recording process and build computer templates. Gain new vocal recording techniques and complete a final mix to ready for the mastering process. The end result will be a finished CD the band can take home and use for an actual demo for shopping purposes.

For more information or to get a registration form, call Vickie Grow at 301.934.7652 or e-mail vickieg@csmd.edu. For class info call Ron Vento @ 301.910.6163

Orange Rockerverb Added To Amp Collection(5/7/2010)

In addition to our VHT Ultralead, Mesa Boogie Triple Rec, and Marshall JCM 900 we have now added and Orange Rockerverb.
Pictures to follow.

You Guessed It... Another Upgrade: "Lil Freq" Added(03/22/2010)

So it seems that we are always on here every month with upgrades lately. This month is no exception. We have added the Empirical Labs "Lil Freq" Eq to our outboard gear.
Here is a link to learn a bit more about it:
( http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/LilFrEQ )

If you have missed some of our other recent additions, check out our gear section at nightskystudios.org. Some of the stuff recently has been An API 5500 Stereo EQ, 2500 series Comp , 3124 pre, VHT Pitbull, Chandler Germanium comps and Pre's, etc. That is in additional to our already great outboard gear.

Tired Of Horrible Live Sound? We Offer Sound Starting At $250(03/01/2010)

This is just a post to let everyone know if you have shows you need sound for we offer a full live sound rig starting at $250. Included with the PA is a trained sound man so you won't have to deal with a random guy running your show. Our guys NEVER leave the board and their priority is making you sound good. We always get there early to do a full sound check, as well as to make sure your monitors are good. If you can't hear yourself properly, we know it can be a real problem.

We have been in business for over 12 years with our studio so we know a bit about sound. We also teach courses for live sound at the College of Southern Maryland if anyone wants to learn more about their own rigs. If Interested get in touch at aurora4dth@aol.com

(Note:
if you are running numerous bands, do really long multiple sets or doing go go music the rate will be slightly higher)

New Recording & Live Sound Workshop Dates (12/08/2009)

The New Recording and Workshop Dates have been announced by CSM. They will be taught at Nightsky Studios. Info on each class is below.

Basic Live Sound OperationsPEP 5000-82070 February 1 - February 4, 2010, 6pm - 9 p.m. Learn the operation of a basic live sound PA system in this course. Topics covered will include mixing console operation, PA design and system setup, equalization, amplifiers, crossovers, loudspeaker design, microphone techniques, and monitoring. This course is ideal for sound crews from nightclub, churches, and reception halls.

Introduction to Basic Studio Recording PEP 6840-82071 March 8 - March 11, 2010, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. Come and be introduced to basic recording equipment and procedures in a studio recording setting. This class will prepare you to advance in the field and will include pertinent instruction on the essential elements for a studio, which include consoles or mixers, recorders, and monitors. You will also learn how to identify which microphones to use and how to place them, as well as a basic mix after recording.

Basic Studio Recording LabPEP 6170-82072 March 22 - March 25 2010, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. This class is the follow-up lab course to PEP 6840, Basic Studio Recording. Complete a recording project from start to finish. Learn how to set up Pro Tools for an actual recording process and build computer templates. Gain new vocal recording techniques and complete a final mix to ready for the mastering process. The end result will be a finished CD the band can take home and use for an actual demo for shopping purposes.

For more information or to get a registration form, call Vickie Grow at 301.934.7652 or e-mail vickieg@csmd.edu. For class info call Ron Vento at 301.910.6163.

ALL WE DO IS UPGRADE!!!! API 5500 Mastering EQ added!! (10/06/2009)

That is correct, now we have added an API 5500 EQ to our gear. This is a Superb Mastering EQ as well as general tracking EQ. Please check out our Equipment lists for the recent additions, as well as the Pictures section for all photos.

We now have to offer a VHT Ultralead Pitbull to guitarists recording with us, in addition to our Mesa Triple Rec and Marshall JCM 900. Bass players, we have also added a Great SVT4 PRO rig as well. Remember, all of our amps are now free to any bands recording with us. Check out the pictures section to see our available gear.

CSM Class/Workshop Dates Announced for Nightsky Studios (06/15/09)

The College of Southern Maryland has just announced the dates for the fall classes/workshops that will taught at Nightsky Studios. The dates and times are as follows:

Basic Live Sound Operation (Learn how to set up and run a live sound, concert, or church event, as well as other techniques) - 09/14/09 to 09/17/09 from 6 to 9PM

Recording Lab (Set up and record a band start to finish and give them a finished demo of the work) Basic recording class is not required but is recommended before taking this lab. - 10/05/08 to 10/08/09

Contact Ron Vento at 301.910.6163 or Vicki Grow at 301.934.2251 for more information.

Nightsky Studios News June 2009(06/01/09)

Well, it's been about 5 months since the last update so here is what has been going on at Nightsky. I know we have missed a bunch of people so my apologies.

HydraFX returned to Nightsky to do the their new full length CD. The CD turned out great. They should be posting song samples in the next few days. Only one is up at the moment (nothing else remains) and it is a rough mix, check out their site (www.myspace.com/hydrafx) in a day or two to hear the final mixes on a couple tracks. This was the most fun we have had in a while working on a CD.

Sam Grow finished his new EP. It turned out so well that we will be going back in to do another 4 or 5 tracks to turn it into a full length CD. Unfortunately, it will be a few months before we finish the last few songs so the CD people were waiting on will be delayed a little while longer. It will be well worth the wait. One of the tracks from the EP (holding back) is up at (www.myspace.com/samgrowacoustik)

Northbrook after a very long time have finished their CD. As promised, here is the link to check out the tracks for the new CD (www.myspace.com/northbrook) Great indie style rock.

Blynd Faith have completed their new double cd. It should be released coming in the next month or so. One cd will be a studio recording and the second will be a live recording. Check out the tracks (Harsh Reality & Good Morning America) from the new CD at (www.myspace.com/therealblyndfaithmovement)

Reverie returned to the studio to start rough tracking and mapping out the songs for their new CD which will be recorded later this summer. We got the bulk of the roughs done and the new CD should be exciting . Check out the older tracks from the last CD at (www.myspace.com/thetruereverie)

Dynamic Superiors newly reformed and once signed to Motown records in the early 1970’s are in Nightsky working on their CD. We should have the CD done later this year. No samples are up as of yet but check out the site here (www.myspace.com/thedynamicsuperiors)

Amy & Heather Howes Completed their new EP, samples will be posted shortly.

Sickened by the Grey are still in the process of recording their full length CD. This started out as an EP and now is a full CD. They are still in need of a bass player. Check out some tracks at (www.myspace.com/sickenedbythegrey)

Below Sixth, Others May Fall, Minus One, We have the Summer, Left Lane Committee & Arsenic have finally released their CDs we completed earlier this year. I know these are older recordings but I just wanted to make sure everyone knew they were out for sale now. Check out their sites at:

Remember CD replication prices are now lower. Also, be on the lookout for our article in this month's issue of TapeOp Magazine. We look forward to working with everyone who has upcoming sessions and we encourage any bands looking to record to come to the studio and check out what we have to offer, call 301.910.6163 or email aurora4dth@aol.com for info.

Nightsky Studios Featured in TapeOp Magazine(05/26/09)

Nightsky Studios has a large artice in the new May/June issue of TapeOp Magazine. The article discusses the art of recording death / black metal music. Be sure to check it out if you get a chance. You can get a 1 year subscription for free at http://www.tapeop.com one of the best music recording magazines by far. The new issue should be arriving in stores in the next week or so. Special thanks to Larry at TapeOp for wanting to have an article discussing this music form.

Price Change in CD & DVD Replication(04/01/09)

We recently have reduced the prices on most of our CD packages. Believe it or not with gas going back down in price this directly effects our CD and DVD package prices. Basically we are able to take more off of the complete price due to delivery costs going back down. Also in case you missed our bulletin, we now offer many odd packages as well. If you can dream it we can make it.

On another note we do REPLICATION not duplication. We create a glass master and replicate from there. Our packages are like the ones you buy in the stores, NOT printed at the house or on our PC. Because of this, our minimum order starts at 500 units and turn around time is 2 to 4 weeks. We use the same plants as Sony, Universal, etc.

When we quote a price that's the price, no hidden fees. Our price quote will be EXACT. It will include everything from bar codes, to clear jewel trays, shipping, shrink wrap, etc. Get in touch for quotes aurora4dth@aol.com or call 301.910.6163.

Nightsky Studios Upgrades to Pro Tools 8.0(12/26/08)

Nightsky Studios has officially upgraded to Pro Tools 8.0. No sooner than 5 days after its release we are up and running with the latest and greatest.
Check out digidesign.com to see all the added features etc.
As in the past we are still using the HD 3 Accel System

Nightsky Studios Adds New Gear From Chandler to its Arsenal(12/08/08)

Nightsky Studios has just added the Chandler Germanium pre amp and compressor to the gear list. If you don't know what these pieces bring to the studio then we encourage you to check out chandlers web site at http://www.chandlerlimited.com. If you already are familiar with Chandler products then you know what they can do. Also we will be installing Pro Tools 8.0 in late December when Digidesign starts shipping.

And since you're checking out gear, make sure you visit our full gear list to check out all our other great gear like the API 2500 and API 3124, or come to the studio and hear it all for yourself on some of our recent projects.

CSM (College of Southern Maryland) is Offering Two Classes Through Nightsky Recording Studios(9/11/08)

The First is Introduction to Basic Studio Recording:PEP 5260-66110 (Sept 15th through 18th) 6 to 9 PM
Come and be introduced to basic recording equipment and procedures in a studio recording setting. This class will prepare you to advance in the field and will include pertinent instruction on the essential elements for a studio, which include consoles or mixers, recorders, and monitors. You will also learn how to identify which microphones to use and how to place them, as well as a basic mix after recording. Class will be based on using a Pro Tools System.

The Second is Basic Studio Recording Lab:PEP 6170-66113 (Oct 6th through 9th) 6 to 9 PM
This class is the follow-up lab course to PEP 5260, Basic Studio Recording. It is highly recommended to complete the 1st course before taking this one. Complete a recording project from start to finish. Learn how to set up Pro Tools for an actual recording process and build computer templates. Gain new vocal recording techniques and complete a final mix to ready for the mastering process. The end result will be a finished CD the band can take home and use for an actual demo for shopping purposes.

Nightsky Studio Adds an A Designs Pacifica to the Pre Amp Arsenal(06/18/08)

We have just added a new stereo pre-amp to our gear line up. The A Designs Pacifica.

Here is some info on it:

A Designs Pacifica has the depth of a Neve, the clear midrange of API, and the top end of a Massenburg.

Nightsky Productions Compilation CD Vol. 1(05/29/08)

Nightsky Studios will be putting together its first ever compilation CD. The CD will feature 10 bands. Any BAND or any genre can be included. Bands that have recorded at Nightsky Studios will obviously get priority.

What does this cost you???

Well that depends...
A. If your track has already been recorded at Nightsky Studios, the cost is $200
B. If you have a track and the recording quality is good but we didn't record it, the cost will be $300
C. If you have no track recorded and want to have a song recorded and included, the cost is $500. We will supply the recording, start to finish, up to 10 hours time, which will get you a top quality recording. This in itself is $450 so you will basically be included on the CD for $50.

What do you get in return???

All bands will get 100 copies of the CD to sell, give away or do with whatever you like. So even if you sell these things at $5 each you will more than double your money. The CDs will be professionally printed and a 12 page booklet will be included. Each band will get 1 full page in the booklet. I will supply you with the template to use and you can design your own panel in the CD.

Remember there will be 9 other bands selling and promoting these CDs. I will also be keeping about 50 or so copies to send to various promoters, labels, etc. who I have made contact with over the years.

I would like to have this CD out by early September, which means all bands would have to be recorded and/or submitted by early August. The release date could be earlier or later depending on how quickly the CD fills up. Any interested parties should contact me at aurora4dth@aol.com or call 301.910.6163. If you are a graphics artist and want to design the front and back covers, please get in touch. And remember, this is for BANDS only.

Nightsky Studios in March 08 Issue of Mix Magazine(03/09/08)

Nightsky Studios will be in Mix Magazine March 08 issue under the "Track Sheet" section. The short spot talks a bit about the internship program, studio etc.

New Internship is Filled(02/01/08)

The February through August intern position has been filled. The new position will begin on September 1st. Thanks to all those who sent resumes etc. We will keep them until the next go around. Feel free to send us an email reminder if you are still interested closer to the next internship (aurora4dth@aol.com) If you are unfamiliar with the internship policy please visit the FAQ's section on the information page for how the internship works.

CSM (College of Southern Maryland) is Offering Two Classes Through Nightsky Recording Studios

The First is Introduction to Basic Studio Recording: PEP 5260-66110 (March 3rd through the 6th)
Come and be introduced to basic recording equipment and procedures in a studio recording setting. This class will prepare you to advance in the field and will include pertinent instruction on the essential elements for a studio, which include consoles or mixers, recorders, and monitors. You will also learn how to identify which microphones to use and how to place them, as well as a basic mix after recording. Class will be based on using a Pro Tools System.

The Second is Basic Studio Recording Lab:PEP 6170-66113 (March 14th through 16th)
This class is the follow-up lab course to PEP 5260, Basic Studio Recording. It is highly recommended to complete the 1st course before taking this one. Complete a recording project from start to finish. Learn how to set up Pro Tools for an actual recording process and build computer templates. Gain new vocal recording techniques and complete a final mix to ready for the mastering process. The end result will be a finished CD the band can take home and use for an actual demo for shopping purposes.

Nightsky Studios has just added a Vintage Schumann R6 Baby Grand Piano to the studios instrument list. It will be available to everyone for all sessions.

Current Internship Filled(06/15/07)

The current internship which will last until Jan 08 has been filled. If you are interested in the next one please send an email so i can have you on file for Jan. ( aurora4dth@aol.com ). Before emailing please see the previous news post "Concerning Internships at the Studio" or go to the FAQ's section on the information page to see the intern policy.

New Internship Policy(06/09/07)

Nightsky Studios is taking on a new Internship Policy. Due to lack of dedication and punctuality in some of our past interns, the studio will now follow in line of what most other studios are now doing at this time. A six month internship at Nightsky Studios will now cost $1000. We have researched this extensively and found that the studios that do it this way tend to weed out the interns that are just at the studio for leisure. We are looking for interns that are there to learn and help not just sit back and go to sleep or not show up. This is BY FAR the best schooling you can get and it is 1 on 1 with tons of hands on. So before you look at the price remember that schooling at any institution will cost thousands more. Internships at working studios are very valuable and look great on your resume. We will only be taking 1 intern for every six month period so they can work as much as they like. The Studio generally runs 5 to 7 days a week. This is a first come first serve position. Minor Pro tools and other experience are preferred but not entirely necessary if you are good at learning quickly. Any interested parties should contact Ron Vento at AURORA4dth@aol.com, also visit the web site at nightskystudios.org

Updated to Pro Tools 7.2(09/29/06)

Nightsky Studios has another upgrade!!! We have just upgraded our Pro Tools software yet again to the new Pro Tools 7.2. We are still using the top HD 3 Accel System, just with the latest and greatest version of Pro Tools.

New API Gear(05/06/06)

Nightsky Studios has just upgraded its studios again with the addition of an API 3124 4 channel pre amp and an API 2500 stereo buss compressor. Anyone who has heard these pieces knows what they bring to the studio. Also two 23" Apple cinema displays were added as well. New photos to come soon.

Nightsky Studios Featured in May Issue of EQ Magazine(05/03/06)

Nightsky Studios will be featured in EQ Magazine again in the May issue in the "Room With A VU" Section

Nightsky Studios Featured in EQ Magazine

Ron Vento (Nightsky Studios) will be featured in the February 2006 EQ magazine adding 10 tips / tricks of the top 200 tricks of the industry. Also keep an eye out for either March or April issues as well when the studio will have a full feature as well.

Nightsky Studios Adds Pro Tools HD3 Accel System

Nightsky Studios is proud to now add the New Pro Tools HD3 Accel system to its arsenal. This is the most powerful and flexible Pro Tools system to date. Very few studio in the area are offering this. System features 24-bit/192 kHz audio files. Play back up to 192 simultaneous fully automatable tracks of pristine audio with the guarantee of no dropped samples, all running on the studio's new 2.5g dual processor Macintosh G5. This is the system you want to do your next project on!!! Don't be fooled by studios offering Pro Tools using home versions such as Digi 001, Digi 002 and Mbox.